Saturday, August 2, 2008

KAI KÜHNE –“AS FOUR” ALUM’S SERENE ELEGANCE S/S ‘09

A congratulatory backstage hug from IMG's Fern Mallis

EUROPEAN FLAIR WITH STRUCTURED LUXE

July 20th, 17:00 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, Bebelplatz, Berlin

Words, Image Judith EcochardThe last time we saw Kai Kühne was a bunch of years ago at a cocktail fueled celebration in Barney’s NY (for what?). At that time the svelte German model/designer with theatrical butterfly wings attached…made a favorable impression on us.

So naturally, we were soooooo looking forward to the showing of Kühne’s collection in his native country-and happily, thought it was one of the top shows.

First of all, our eardrums got a break with the strains of classical music accompanying the mannequins-who floated down the runway at the ideal pace with which to take in the sophisticated pastiche of precise tailoring and gorgeous fabrics.

Creamy ivory and coal black shimmery silks, metallics, and linen- mixed in with buttery leathers and what looked like treated linen fabrics-were deftly cut into complex strapless evening confections, an urbane white trench, and sumptuous suits that reminded us of the intricate tailoring of designers René Lezard and Miuccia Prada.

We loved the fitted slim pants that bunched at the ankles, paired with a matching structured jacket with a wide lapel that just draped so…and a dove gray sheath that was perfectly seamed.

Overall, a very modern collection for an upscale clientele-whether she lives life as a cosmopolitan ingénue or lady of a certain age who sits on a Board of Directors. INFO: KAI KÜHNE